The Conference Welcome Reception was held in the luxurious 16th floor ballroom facilities of the newly completed 92 story Trump International Hotel and Tower on the evening of October 21st, 2009, the night before the conference began. Delegates were treated to sweeping views of the Chicago skyline and riverfront while mingling with other conference attendees over cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. The international make up of the conference was reflected at the reception as well, with many international attendees having just arrived in Chicago earlier that day.

The evening was sponsored by CICO consultants of Doha, and the firm representative, Stuart Allen, gave a brief message of welcome to the attendees. Following this, CTBUH Executive Director, Antony Wood presented Eric Trump of the Trump Organization with a plaque to recognize the significant height achievements of the reception venue, Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago. The CTBUH recognized the tower as the tallest building in the world with an all-concrete structure, the tallest mixed-use building in North America, the 2nd tallest building in North America, the 7th tallest building in the world and as the tallest building constructed in the US in 35 years, since Sears Tower in 1974.

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Attendees gather in 16th floor ballrom

Antony Wood presents Eric Trump with CTBUH plaque

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Video

Click to watch an overview video of the Welcome Reception, which includes social footage and speeches from: Antony Wood (CTBUH), Stuart Allen (CICO), and Eric Trump (Trump Organization).